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Videogame Improves Cognition in People with MS

July 21, 2020

Treatment with an interactive videogame for six weeks improved thinking (processing) speed significantly in a trial involving 44 people with MS and mild or moderate disability. Improvements were maintained by most participants eight weeks later. A comparison group using a computerized word game also improved in processing speed, but improvements were less significant and were not maintained by most individuals. A larger clinical trial is planned, based on these positive results.
  • Changes in cognitive function are common in MS. Cognition refers to a range of high-level brain functions including information processing (dealing with information gathered by the five senses), processing speed, and memory (acquiring, retaining and retrieving new information).
  • AKL-T03, the videogame intervention tested in this study, is an investigational software that engages individuals in sensory and motor tasks. The game automatically adjusts for a personalized treatment experience tailored to each individual. The game used as a control (AKL-T09) involves connecting letters on a grid to spell as many words as possible.
  • The interventions used in this study were developed by Akili Interactive Labs, Inc. In June, Akili’s EndeavorTM became the first game-based therapeutic granted marketing authorization by the FDA for any type of condition, when it was approved to increase attention in children with ADHD. Endeavor is being tested in a small study in children with MS, to determine if it can treat cognitive impairments.
  • This research was supported by an unrestricted grant from Akili Interactive, and the company provided the games without charge for the study. 
“A novel in-home digital treatment to improve processing speed in people with multiple sclerosis: A pilot study” by Riley Bove, MD (University of California, San Francisco) and colleagues, was published June 25, 2020 in the MS Journal.

About Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis is an unpredictable disease of the central nervous system. Currently there is no cure. Symptoms vary from person to person and may include disabling fatigue, mobility challenges, cognitive changes, and vision issues. An estimated 1 million people live with MS in the United States. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical to minimize disability. Significant progress is being made to achieve a world free of MS.

About the National Multiple Sclerosis Society

The National MS Society, founded in 1946, is the global leader of a growing movement dedicated to creating a world free of MS. The Society funds cutting-edge research for a cure, drives change through advocacy and provides programs and services to help people affected by MS live their best lives. Connect to learn more and get involved: nationalMSsociety.org, Facebook, X, formerly known as Twitter, Instagram, YouTube or 1-800-344-4867.

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